Wigs for Cancer and Hair Loss Patients

Hair loss is a difficult reality that many cancer patients (and others) are forced to confront. Fortunately for all hair loss victims, there are modern day solutions that can ease this distress. Wigs for cancer patients and other hair loss victims can be purchased and custom ordered to fit the exact color and size of each individual. If you are suffering from hair loss or would like to donate wigs for cancer, alopecia, leukemia and other hair loss victims, we have information that may be helpful for you. Continue below for information on receiving and donating hair.

Things you should know as a victim

Many insurance companies will cover the cost of a wig for cancer and other medical purposes.

There are many styles of wigs for you to choose from, and you should vary your options as much as possible. Wearing a wig everyday may be tedious or uncomfortable. Instead, try a hairpiece that can peek out from under a beret, kerchief or scarf. This is not only lighter and more comfortable, but stylish and cute. You can get bangs, ponytails, curls, long falls (that look like a full head of hair but are actually just a piece that falls down your back), and sidepieces to interchange with your full wig.

Speak to your hairstylist about setting up a private appointment to discuss styling and privacy options.

Synthetic vs. human hair wigs: Many people prefer synthetic wigs because they are easier to care for and less expensive. Modern day synthetic wigs are coming closer and closer to their human hair counterparts and some are nearly impossible to detect. Heat is a problem for synthetic wigs. Intense heat will fry the hair and even low heat can cause frizzing. Washing and styling synthetics is easier than human hair wigs.

Soft cotton or nylon caps should be worn under the wig for the best fit. Buy several of these and change them frequently for your comfort.

What you can do to help victims

Next time you decide to take a drastic change in hairstyle, think about others before you chop off those waist length locks. Donating your hair to a society can give someone hope and encouragement during an extremely difficult time in their life. Organizations such as Locks of Love and The Leukemia Foundation will accept these donations and transform your excess hair into a beautiful wig for someone who will greatly appreciate the thoughtfulness.

In order to donate hair, follow these simple instructions

Wash hair thoroughly. Hair need not be dry when cut, but must be before mailing.

No chemically treated hair will be accepted and some organizations have a limit as to the amount of gray hair they will accept.

Tie hair back into a ponytail or braid.

Cut the ponytail/braid at least 8" (most places only accept a 12" minimum) from one end to the other, and place into a plastic bag. Be sure the hair is securely tied with rubber bands on one or both ends.

Place this bag in a padded envelope and mail to the organization of your choice.

With your donation, you can truly make a difference in someone else's life. Take this noble step today and donate your hair for wigs for cancer and other hair loss patients. With one small act, you will be making the world a better place.